Finding a job after studying in Germany
When it comes to education and job placement, Germany is Europe’s powerhouse due to its great economy, good universities and niche as well as large very successful companies.
Germany is also the most popular European destination for international students. One further reason besides its highly acclaimed education system could be the excellent job opportunities on offer after graduation. Not only is the unemployment rate for graduates almost non-existent, but getting a Master’s degree from a German university also means you get a permit to work in Germany.
What does this work permit mean in detail?
For students from EU countries
As an EU citizen, you can seek job opportunities without a visa. The good thing for you is that you will be treated no differently to German residents when it comes to accessing the employment market with its regulated working conditions as well as enjoying the social and tax benefits of the country.
For students from non-EU countries
If you’re a student from a non-EU country, you can extend your residence permit for up to 18 months in order to find a suitable job in your field of studies. You need to prove that you’ve completed your studies and that you have means of supporting yourself financially during the time of your job search. For this purpose, during this period, you may take up any job which would also serve as proof of income. If you find a job which matches your qualifications during these 18 months (jobbing, e.g., as a waiter or a barkeeper, wouldn’t count), you would receive a temporary residence permit. After two more years, you would be eligible for a permanent residence permit.
If you are interested in studying at PFH, it could be of great advantage as you also get a job guarantee after you complete your studies, whether you are an EU citizen or not. For more details ask the supervisor of the programme of your choice.
What should be considered for a job in Germany
- Most graduates search for jobs that are particularly related to their study field, but make sure to consider other related areas. A degree in General Management allows for many different roles in management positions.
- Don’t limit your job search only to large companies. There are many small and medium-sized companies that provide 60% of all jobs in Germany. For example, take the company Ottobock. They are world leader in prosthetics, but you might not have heard about them.
- However, if you’re more interested in Composites, there is not only Airbus or the aircraft industry. You can also think of Formula 1, renewable energies with wind turbines, bikes or, of course - in Germany - the automotive industry.
We hope we have answered any pressing questions you may have had in terms of finding a job after graduating in Germany. If you’re still in the phase of considering where to study in Germany, take a look at our General Management and the Composites study programmes.